Suboxone is a marketing name for buprenorphine/naloxone. It is a combination medication that contains buprenorphine while is an opioid substance and have similar effects on the body as other opioids, and naloxone, which is a non-opioid substance that blocks the effects of opioid medication. This combination makes it an ideal medicine for the treatment of narcotic addiction. The DEA has classified this medicine as a schedule III controlled substance, which means you will need a prescription to buy Suboxone online.
It is an opioid antagonist that blocks the effect of opioids and can cause severe opioid withdrawal when injected. It has little effect when taken by mouth or dissolved under the tongue. It is combined with buprenorphine to prevent abuse and misuse (injection) of this medication. This combination medication is used as part of a complete treatment program for drug abuse (such as compliance monitoring, counseling, behavioral contract, lifestyle changes).
There are different brands and forms of this medication available. Because different products may contain different amounts of buprenorphine and naloxone, do not change brands or dosage forms without consulting your doctor or pharmacist.
Use this medication during your treatment maintenance period as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. Place the medication under your tongue for 5 to 10 minutes and let it dissolve completely. If you are prescribed more than one tablet each day, you may place all of the tablets under your tongue at once or place two tablets at a time under your tongue. Do not swallow or chew this medication. It will not work as well.
For most patients, buprenorphine alone is usually used for the first 2 days after you have stopped all other opioids. It is usually given in your doctor's office. Your doctor will then switch you to this combination buprenorphine/naloxone medication for maintenance treatment. The combination with naloxone works the same way as buprenorphine alone to prevent withdrawal symptoms. For some patients, this combination product may be used to start treatment (called induction). Follow your doctor's directions carefully.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose, take the medication more frequently, or take it for a longer time than prescribed. Properly stop the medication when so directed.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day.
Buprenorphine/naloxone may cause withdrawal symptoms especially if you use it soon after using opioids such as heroin, morphine, or methadone. Follow your doctor's instructions for your treatment plan.
If you suddenly stop using this medication, you may have withdrawal symptoms (such as restlessness, watering eyes, runny nose, nausea, sweating, muscle aches). To help prevent withdrawal, your doctor may lower your dose slowly. Withdrawal is more likely if you have used this medication for a long time or in high doses. Tell your doctor or pharmacist right away if you have withdrawal.